The Pittsburgh Steelers have agreed to trade star wide receiver Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for veteran cornerback Donte Jackson, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
The player-for-player swap comes just ahead of the official start of the new league year as both franchises move to fill critical positions of need. In addition to the players, the teams are reportedly swapping late-round draft picks; the Steelers will receive a 2024 sixth-round selection (No. 178) while the Panthers receive a 2024 seventh-round pick (No. 240).
For Carolina, the acquisition of Johnson provides a much-needed primary target for second-year quarterback Bryce Young. Johnson, a former Pro Bowler, is entering the final year of his current contract and brings a reputation as one of the league's premier route-runners to a Panthers offense that lacked explosive playmaking last season.
The Steelers bolster their secondary by adding Donte Jackson, a speedy veteran who has spent his entire six-year career in Carolina. Jackson is expected to compete for a starting role immediately, providing a veteran presence opposite Joey Porter Jr. following the release of Patrick Peterson earlier this month.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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